Detroit Red Wings head coach Mike Babcock talks to his team during the third period of an NHL hockey game against the San Jose Sharks in Detroit, Thursday, April 11, 2013.

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The Red Wings head into the last week of the regular season uncertain whether there will be a first week of the playoffs. It has been a tradition in Detroit for 21 straight seasons, and these Wings remain convinced they can extend it to 22.

Four games are left to get the job done: The Coyotes come to town tonight, to play a game that odds would indicate will be a Detroit loss. The first test back from a West Coast trip demands a reserve of energy few have. The Red Wings spent Sunday hopping three time zones, flying for five hours. Their body clocks are skewed, but no one wants to hear it.